Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging Chevy Chase

Definitions

Diversity: Viewing diversity as an asset and being different or having differences. 

Equity: Equity considers individual needs and unique circumstances, such as race, sex, age, socioeconomic class, physical ability, and veteran status, and aims to eliminate historical and systemic barriers that cause oppression in accessing educational resources and opportunities to thrive.

Equality: At its core, equality means fairness: we must ensure that individuals, or groups of individuals, are not treated less favorably because of their protected characteristics.

Inclusion: Accepting and including all community members 

Belonging: The acceptance, inclusion, and security that a person experiences in a group. In a school context, belonging can refer to how students feel about their place in the community and whether they feel comfortable sharing their ideas and participating in school activities.

Statement of Purpose

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

We are dedicated to making Oneness-Family School a diverse, equitable, and inclusive community where everyone feels they belong. Inherent to the DNA of our school is a deep conviction for the intrinsic value of each person. Fostering an authentic culture of D.E.I.B. is the singular best way to live the Oneness-Family School mission and fulfill our vision. 

To that end, we are committed to:

Shaped by geographic birthplace, cultural tradition, heritage, gender identity, race and ethnicity, and lived experience, members of our School community have been integral in enriching the lives of students, embodying the vision, and carrying out the mission of Oneness-Family School for more than thirty-five years. 

We invite, encourage, and ask that you be an active participant in this work. 

Our Approach

Our holistic approach to the social-emotional development curriculum and activities that support Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) is as follows : 

Student-Centered Practices

For 1st—12th grade, we regularly hold intentional Diversity, Equity, and inclusion learning in the classroom, highlighting diverse cultures, identities, religions, values, and cognitive and physical differences.

Faculty & Staff Development

Our staff and teachers are committed to this work. They are trained yearly in DEIB in courses such as the American Montessori Society’s “Embracing Equity. ” They intentionally work to incorporate diverse narratives across the curriculum. Along with the Director of Curriculum and Director of Student Affairs, the teachers actively work to include diverse voices in subjects such as literature, science, and the humanities.

Parent & Guardian Partnership

The school offers parent education around DEIB topics as we partner to support our students in embracing all differences and creating a space of belonging for each other. These are held in person and via Zoom. All parents are encouraged to attend.